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PETALING JAYA: They may not have crossed paths as players, but for Indonesian legend Hariyanto Arbi, Lee Chong Wei is one of the best badminton players in history.
The 48-year-old 1995 world champion and four-time Thomas Cup winner revealed his admiration for Chong Wei by ranking him as one of the top eight men’s individual ferries of all time.
Hariyanto’s other elections are China’s Lin Dan, Yang Yang, and Zhao Jianhua; compatriots Taufik Hidayat, Lim Swie King and Ardy Wiranata; and Kento Momota from Japan.
Although Chong Wei was unable to win an Olympic gold or a world title, Hariyanto still highly appreciates the three-time Olympic Games silver medalist.
“Although he never became a world or Olympic champion, Chong Wei is not inferior (to the best in the other world) in my opinion. As for the quality, it is top notch, “Hariyanto told the Indonesian daily Jawa Pos.
“He is a very technical player and he is very agile. Even when he is in an uncomfortable position at the back of the court, he will always recover due to his quick feet. And from a defensive position, he can change quickly to attack.
Hariyanto Arbi
“His most special ability is his shot from the baseline. It’s so good that he could jump up and fire a confusing shot at his opponent. “
Hariyanto believes that Chong Wei still stands alongside Lin Dan, although the latter was responsible for his two Olympic fouls, in Beijing 2008 and London 2012, in addition to denying it in the final of the 2011 and 2013 World Championships.
“In terms of their game, Chong Wei and Lin Dan are the same. When it’s so finely balanced, it all comes down to mind game, “said Hariyanto.
“When a player tends to lose to a certain opponent, he is bound to be affected.
“From my own experience, it’s hard not to think about the past record.
“That could be the reason why Chong Wei never won the Olympics. However, he is a fantastic player. “
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